Chapter 30

CHAPTERTHIRTY

Liv

Sunday rolled by with a cheerful atmosphere at the guys’ house. Jaxon’s culinary skills shined as he made us some truly mouthwatering burgers on the porch. Chris and I lazily soaked up the sun next to him, enjoying the warmth and good company. The confinement didn’t feel so bad when I was surrounded by my people. Listening to Jaxon and Ryder bickering was the new highlight of my day, their banter always managing to make me laugh. Meanwhile, Chase worked his magic as his hands kneaded away the tension from my shoulders. River, ever the tech guru, set up my new phone, mirroring the setup of my old one so it feels like the same device.

However, Monday is getting on my nerves again. It’s a gloomy, rainy day. With Chris and the guys off to class or gym, it’s just Gunner and me again, locked up in the house, filling the hours with our now habitual movie marathons. As the afternoon fades, we’re watching the last of the Hunger Games movies. My feet rest comfortably in Gunner’s lap, his fingers absently playing with my toes, when my phone chimes with a text from Frank.

Coast is clear.

I bounce up from the couch, holding my phone out for Gunner to see. His forehead creases as he scrutinizes the message, but the sight of my grin is enough to draw a matching one to his face.

I immediately dial Frank’s number, hoping for more detailed information, but my call gets forwarded to voicemail. Not willing to wait, I send a text to the guys’ group chat.

Frank says the coast is clear.

Ryder: Thank fuck.

So am I clear to return to classes tomorrow?

Jaxon: As long as Gunner goes with you.

Gunner lets out a chuckle at Jaxon’s text. “Looks like I’m your new classmate.”

“Looks like it,” I say, punching his arm lightly. “Guess you’ll have to learn all about dance history and choreography now.”

He rolls his eyes, clearly not thrilled about the prospect, but I can’t help but giggle. We sink back onto the couch, turning our attention to the movie again as we wait for the guys to get home.